I personally don't think I'm much of a romantic. I'm pretty realistic, straightforward, and sometimes even cynical. My friends agree, but add that underneath that tough, no-nonsense exterior, I'm a romantic to the core. Okay, let's just say I'm not sappy about it. Or at least not usually, but Cozumel just brings out aspects of people's personalities that seldom find expression elsewhere. Because my last trip to the island was partially for work, I took my laptop along. One night while staying at a hotel in town, I grabbed it and headed for the beach area and a chair to relax in. It was nighttime, so I wasn't going to write. I wanted the laptop so I could play a cd of Spanish guitar music while I stared at the stars and thought about nothing. I had purchased the cd specifically for this trip and was glad I had. It was rhythmic and romantic, and captured the mood of the island perfectly.

Because Carnaval was going full blast, there were lots of people in town, but I had the beach to myself until I noticed a dark-haired man leaning on the lagoon wall, looking out over the ocean and obviously enjoying the music too. When he noticed me looking, he smiled, said he liked the music, that it was a good idea, and did I mind if he listened. I told him that was fine and we enjoyed several more songs, lost in our own little worlds before he came over, introduced himself as Juan, and then asked me to dance.

These are the times in your life where you have to tell yourself that times like these seldom come along in life and you can't let them slip by because you're embarrassed or nervous or afraid. The streets were full of people, the request was innocent enough, and the night was beautiful. So what the hell, I danced with Juan, barefoot in the sand, under the stars and moon on a Caribbean island. I've said it before; I'm no fool.

Before too long, another couple wandered out. After a moment they turned to leave, as if not wanting to intrude, but I invited them to stay and enjoy the music with us. Eventually two more couples and several of the hotel staff joined us and it became a small party. Juan and I visited with the others, I restarted the cd, and we all danced and enjoyed the perfect night. Eventually it grew late and people began to drift off. I politely but firmly declined Juan's requests for extended companionship before heading up to my room.

I gave the cd of Spanish guitar songs to Jaun as a thank you for his company and kindness. And as soon as I got back to Minnesota, I went to Wal-Mart and bought the same exact one. I play it on clear, starry nights and think about the amazing things that seem to only happen on Cozumel, especially if you have the right mood music.

Donít let fear of the unknown keep you from experiencing Cozumel's beautiful underwater world. This truly is one of the most unforgettable aspects of the island and there is more than one way to experience this!